A Full House at 2Ten Main
On Wednesday, September 24th we host our first event in Niles, MI. The greater Niles community came together for an energizing event that blended learning, networking, and celebration. Hosted at 2Ten Main, affectionately known as the “Coolest Place in Town,” the workshop drew a packed room of business owners, lenders, community leaders, and supporters from across the region.
Learning & Connecting
The day began with a presentation from Tamiko Brown, of Old National Bank on unique products and programs from the bank to support business owners. Our Executive Director, Sam Centellas, then shared the history of CDFI’s, the reason the CDFI Friendly model came to our region, and shared details on our programs.
Sam shared our version of the 5Cs, and on how banks and CDFIs differ on lending. The presentation sparked ideas and conversations among attendees on how to become attractive to different types of lending and capital. The room was filled with entrepreneurs representing a wide variety of industries, all eager to share experiences and explore new opportunities.
Following the workshop, participants gathered for a reception inside 2Ten Main. Guests enjoyed great food from Jim’s Smokin’ Café, a downtown Niles favorite and proud client of ours. The informal setting gave people a chance to connect, collaborate, and see firsthand what makes 2Ten Main such a unique hub for innovation and community building.
Partners Who Make It Possible
We’re grateful to Old National Bank for sponsoring the event and to our friends at the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber and the Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce for helping us spread the word and strengthen connections across the region. Their support was key to making the event such a success.
Spotlight on Local Entrepreneurs
One highlight came from our friend KC Johnson with the Emerge Innovation Hub, who shared her inspiring success story and introduced her new personal venture, We Got The Juice Co. To support her next steps, we awarded KC a three-month membership to 2Ten Main — giving her space to grow right in downtown Niles. Learn more HERE.
We also welcomed a new face, Jetta of Jetta’s Kettle Corn, who asked about office space options at 2Ten Main. She, too, is receiving a three-month membership from our friends at 2Ten Main! That means Niles can look forward to even more delicious popcorn as her business grows.
What’s Next for Niles
The energy from this event is just the beginning. With local entrepreneurs stepping forward, partners investing in their success, and a community that shows up to support them, Niles is poised for more growth and momentum.
Thank you again to everyone who helped make this event a success.
We can’t wait to see what comes next.
